Health Benefits of Almonds on a Weight Loss Program

When it comes to snack foods, the health benefits of almonds secure top honors for the nut. Not only do almonds pack a powerful punch of nutrients, but they are a huge help to individuals on a weight loss program.

A Healthy SnackAlmonds are more nutrient-dense than any other tree nut, providing vitamin E, magnesium, potassium, fiber and protein. A one-ounce serving is about 23 almonds and 160 calories. The combination of protein and fiber makes almonds a healthy snack. Just a handful will satisfy you and help you feel full until your next meal. They're also super easy to toss in your handbag and eat while you're on the go.

Almonds for Weight LossThe health benefits of almonds run deeper than their basic nutrients and snackability. Researchers have found reason to call almonds a weight loss food - studies have found that eating up to two ounces of the nut daily can actually help in weight management and won't cause weight gain. Almonds boast monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), an ingredient that's now being touted as a miracle worker for your middle. Studies have shown that eating a diet high in MUFAs can tackle tummy troubles by helping to reduce the amount of abdominal body fat accumulation. Plus, almonds are a low on the glycemic index meaning that they protect against surges in blood sugar levels that often occur after eating. Low-glycemic diets can aid in weight loss, especially if you're at risk for diabetes or tend to carry your weight around you abdomen. Studies have even shown that if you eat almonds with other high-glycemic foods, the nut can actually help lower the glycemic index of the entire meal.

Other Health Benefits of AlmondsAlong with helping you to lose weight, almonds can support a weight loss program by providing other health benefits as well. What's more, many of these health benefits help with problems that are common in individuals trying to lose weight.

For individuals with high cholesterol, almonds can help reduce bad LDL cholesterol levels. Almonds can also reduce heart disease risk, most likely due to the high content of the antioxidant vitamin E as well as potent flavonoids that are found in the skin. Choose raw, unsalted almonds and you can give the low-sodium snack accolades for protecting you from high blood pressure as well.

When you're trying to lose weight, what you eat is as important as how much you eat. Add super foods to your diet that support your metabolism and provide your body with quality nutrition to help your body use foods more efficiently.